Saint-Lizier, Medieval commune in Ariège department, France.
Saint-Lizier stands at 428 meters elevation along the Salat River, surrounded by ancient Gallo-Roman walls that once protected this strategic hilltop settlement in southwestern France.
Founded around 72 BC by Roman general Pompey and built on territory of the Consorani Gauls, Saint-Lizier became an episcopal seat with 77 bishops serving until the French Revolution.
The commune preserves two historic cathedrals with 11th-century frescoes, a 12th-century cloister, and serves as a secondary stop on the Santiago de Compostela pilgrimage route.
Visitors can explore the episcopal palace museum, medieval streets with timber-framed houses, and join guided tours during heritage days and annual festivals throughout the year.
This small town of 1,384 residents was the final home of renowned mathematician Alexander Grothendieck, who died here in 2014 after decades of reclusive life.
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